CLAREMONT – For the second time in 10 years, the Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider a variance and special exception for a parcel at the eastern end of Washington Street where a developer wants to build an apartment building and townhouses.
Gilbert Aleixo Filho, of Hampton Falls, N.H., is seeking a variance to increase the permitted density at 492 Washington St., from 30,000 square feet per unit (three-quarters of an acre) to 10,000 square feet per unit (quarter of an acre), according to the application. Filho also wants a special exception to construct multi-family housing on the property, including 68 dwelling units in a three-story building and 10 new townhouses.
The property is currently owned by Wayne and Jean McCutcheon. In June 2016, the McCutcheons applied for and were granted two variances from the ZBA for lot size and permitted uses, similar to what Filho is seeking. The first variance for the McCutcheons was for permitted uses to develop a 74-unit planned residential development with a density of one unit per 10,000 square feet.
The second variance was for lot size in the rural residential district, allowing for 14 duplexes and a 60-unit apartment building. The ZBA approved both variances unanimously. Plans presented to the ZBA included a 12-foot turning lane heading east to access the property. The development never happened and the variances expired. McCutcheon said he has a purchase-and-sale agreement for the property with Filho.
Filho did not respond to a message left for him. If the ZBA approves the variances, the applicant will need to return to the Planning Board for site plan approval.
The ZBA will meet at 7 p.m. in the city council chambers.
Patrick O’Grady can be reached at pogclmt@gmail.com